The University of Lincoln, UK, is to join esteemed company all over the country by joining Arts Council England’s National Portfolio of Organisations.

The University of Lincoln is one of 12 universities to be included in the portfolio. This recognition, from the foremost agency for creativity and culture, means that the University of Lincoln can now be considered one of the premier venues for arts and cultural provision in the UK. This announcement is made even more prestigious by the high quality of all the organisations who have applied for this round of funding, and the tough decisions that have been made by Arts Council England.

Professor Abigail Woods, Pro Vice Chancellor, College of Arts at the University of Lincoln said:

“The fantastic news for arts and creativity in Lincolnshire continues with this announcement, which comes a few days after the news that our region will benefit from £1.2 million as part of the Create Growth Programme.

“We are delighted to see an investment in the city with several organisations benefiting from significant rises and new entrants, all adding to the creative successes throughout Lincoln.

“This is an exciting time for the creative sector in Lincolnshire, and we have even more to look forward to with the new creative direction of Lincoln Performing Arts Centre and the opening of the Barbican Creative Hub in 2023.

“The University of Lincoln has certainly established itself as a key driver for growth in the arts and creative industry in Lincolnshire and beyond.”

Ben Anderson, Creative and Executive Director for Lincoln Performing Arts Centre said:

“Becoming a National Portfolio Organisation is transformational for the role that the University plays in developing the cultural ecology of Lincoln and the county.

“Through its cultural assets, the University’s programme will include events, festivals and a set of permanent and temporary artworks, performances, and installations in collaboration with partners that use technology, connect internationally and are underpinned by research and knowledge exchange through conferences and symposia.

“In an increasingly competitive funding environment, we are humbled to be given this responsibility. With that in mind we will seek to build partnerships with other arts and non-arts-based organisations, and will deliver on our commitments to the climate, to championing diversity and connecting the people of Lincolnshire with ambitious, relevant, and quality artistic experiences.”

Peter Knott, Midlands Area Director, Arts Council England said:

“Lincoln Performing Arts Centre provides strong artistic programming, talent development and creative learning programmes to ensure the next generation of artists flourish.

“We’re delighted to be funding them over the next three years and it’ll be great to see them showcase new and emerging talent.”

As part of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio of Organisations, the University will receive three years of funding from 2023 to deliver projects and activities at Lincoln Performing Arts Centre and The Barbican Creative Hub.